Rai, Jumblatt welcome LF-FPM rapprochement; stop short of endorsing Aoun

BEIRUT: Maronite Patriarch Beshara Rai welcomed Thursday the rapprochement between the Lebanese Forces (LF) and the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM); but stopped short of voicing optimism over a quick political breakthrough in the wake of the LF's endorsement of former General Michel Aoun's candidacy for the presidency.

Instead, the patriarch said LF leader Samir Geagea's initiative would only materialize if it secures the support of all Lebanese factions.

"We bless Geagea's beautiful initiative to nominate Aoun... and it now rests upon all political blocs to assume their responsibilities and elect a president," Rai said.

The Maronite church leader concurred with Speaker Nabih Berri, who downplayed Wednesday the prospects of a quick political breakthrough that would pave the way for the election of a president.

"I support the words of Speaker Berri and I add that if Jesus Christ did not enjoy the support of all political blocs, He would not be able to govern as president," said Rai. "[political factions] should elect a president who is acceptable on the domestic, regional and international level," he added.

Geagea's endorsement of Aoun is the first time the country's two leading Christian parties have come together on such a pivotal issue after decades of animosity.

The LF leader's move came after he was caught off guard when his ally Future Movement leader and former Prime Minister Saad Hariri reportedly nominated Marada Movement Chief Suleiman Franjieh for the presidency, without consulting with him.

Progressive Socialist Party leader Walid Jumblatt welcomed Thursday the rapprochement between Aoun and Geagea. However, like Berri, Jumblatt failed to take a decisive stance vis-à-vis Geagea's endorsement of Aoun.

"We welcome the new rapprochement between the LF and FPM... but we will continue our nomination of MP Henry Helou who represents moderation and dialogue," read a statement released by the PSP.

Jumblatt's decision to reiterate his support for Helou after he had previously voiced support for Franjieh was welcomed by Aoun, who phoned Jumblatt later in the day to thank him, according to a statement released by the PSP. Geagea also praised Jumblatt for his position.

Jumblatt's re-endorsement of Helou leaves the door open for the PSP leader's realignment with Aoun.